What is posterior fixation for the thoracolumbar spine?
Posterior fixation for the thoracolumbar spine is a procedure intended to provide realignment, immobilization, and stabilization of spinal segments in skeletally mature patients throughout the healing process.
Is posterior fixation right for me?
Your physician might determine posterior fixation is a good option for you, for example, if you require additional support for your interbody fusion procedure, are skeletally mature, and have gone through six weeks of non-surgical treatment. Interbody fusion is a surgical technique that attempts to eliminate instability in the back. Conversely, your physician may determine that posterior fixation is not a good option for you, for example, if you are not a good candidate for fusion surgery in general due to other medical conditions. These conditions can be but are not limited to, signs of inflammation or infection near the operative site, patient sensitivity to implant materials, patients with inadequate bone quality, and other indications. Some examples of conditions in which this procedure may be used are: Degenerative disc disease (DDD), Degerative spondylolisthesis, Fracture / dislocation, Degenerative scoliosis, Kyphosis, or Spinal tumor.
Are there risks involved?
Keep in mind that all surgery presents risks and complications that are important to discuss with your physician prior to your surgery. Listening to your physician’s guidance both before and after surgery will help to ensure the best possible outcome from your procedure. Potential risks following a posterior fixation procedure may include: problems with anesthesia, infection, nerve damage, problems with the implants or hardware, and ongoing pain. This is not intended to be a complete list of all possible complications. Please contact your physician to discuss all potential risks.